Involved in a traffic accident? What to do now...

Any involvement in an automobile accident can be a traumatic and stressful situation to deal with.  What starts as an uneventful trip to the store or to collect your kids from soccer practice, can result in a series of doctor's visits, meetings with your lawyer, and awkward conversations with your insurance provider.

The experienced personal injury attorneys at Mason · Thomas are here to help. After being involved in a collision, there are a number of important things to remember.  Following the below checklist will ensure that your rights are protected, and that you are fully compensated for any injuries you suffer.

1. STOP!  You are legally required to stop your vehicle, when it is safe to do so, after an automobile collision.  Once you are in a safe location, call 911 and report the incident to the police.

2. INFORMATION  The insurance details of the other driver(s) involved, the makes and models of the other vehicles, and the names and addresses of any witnesses, are all going to be needed if you choose to make a claim for your injuries.

3. PHOTOGRAPHS  If you have a camera or a camera application on your cell phone, photographs of the scene and the damage caused are going to be very useful.  Weather conditions, vehicle damage, and road layouts can all change after an accident, so recording the current information is important.

4. MEDICAL TREATMENT  Do not delay if you believe that you might need medical treatment.  Many people choose not to see their doctor immediately after an accident, believing that their symptoms will improve.  We encourage you to visit your doctor as soon as possible to prevent any further injury, and to record your current symptoms for future reference if required. 

5. CONSULT AN ATTORNEY  The interests of insurance companies and medical providers are best served by settling your claim as quickly and as cheaply as possible.  However, a brief consultation with a lawyer will provide you with enough information to properly assess your potential claims and will ensure that your rights are protected.

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, please contact us for your free initial consultation at (530) 757 0883, or visit our website at www.masonthomas.com.